14 March | Observation night in the Great Refractor

On Thursday, March 14, 2019, from 7 pm, the Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam (AIP) and the Förderverein "Großer Refraktor" invite to a public observation night in the Great Refractor.

The Potsdam Great Refractor, inaugurated by Emperor Wilhelm II in 1899, is still the world’s fourth largest lens tele­scope. It combines the possibilities of mechanical manufacturing at the turn of the 20th century and the emerging demands of early astrophysical research - especially in the field of spectrography. After an explanatory demonstration, and if the view is clear, guests can take a look at the stars with the help of the instrument.

The event is part of the "100 Years under One Sky" campaign that marks the 100th anniversary of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) 2019.